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From the colonial era to contemporary times, Canada has never shied away from ambitious building projects, which in their times have variously defended the emerging nation, broken world records for their incredible industriousness and left visitors from all over the world awestruck at their architectural beauty. From coast to coast, Canada's cities claim splendid structures that stand out as urban icons – and major tourist attractions – while also remaining vital in their diverse functions. If you're planning a Canadian vacation, consider including a visit to one or more of the following famous structures; they're all impossible to miss.

The CN Tower

Toronto's most famous landmark, the CN Tower tops out at 1,815 feet tall. When it opened in 1976, the tower became the tallest building in the world, and it claimed that title for the next 34 years. Losing its "world's tallest" status did little to dampen enthusiasm for the architectural icon. Glass-fronted elevators whiz groups of tourists up to the 1,136-foot level in 58 seconds flat. On the LookOut level, floor-to-ceiling window walls afford panoramic views across the whole city, and from even farther up at the SkyPod level (accessed via a second elevator inside the tower's skinny pinnacle) you'll see for 100 miles on a clear day – as far as Niagara Falls. For daring visitors, there's a clear, solid-glass floor, along with the EdgeWalk, which will find you harnessed but hands-free as you step around a 5-foot-wide ledge encircling the top of the tower. And not to worry: it promises to hold the weight of 35 moose.

The Fortifications of Old Quebec

Old Quebec is the only city in North America to have preserved its original colonial-era fortifications – the imposing stone walls, ramparts, bastions, gates and other defensive works that join the natural defenses of Cape Diamond in encircling the Upper Town. The incredibly preserved, 2.9-mile-long fortifications dating to the 17th century are a defining feature of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic District of Old Quebec and a National Historic Site, as well as a top tourist attraction in the city. The general public is welcome to walk along the walls, but to access other parts of the fortifications and learn all about their history, opt for a guided tour offered from mid-May to early October.

Parliament Hill

The iconic Centre Block, an imposing, yet ornate, Gothic-inspired complex built on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, is home to the Canadian Senate, House of Commons and Library of Parliament. If it looks familiar, check your Canadian money, which bears its likeness. Summertime visitors (mid-July to mid-September) are treated to the ceremonial changing of the guard every morning, and every evening the Sound and Light show celebrates Canadian heritage through special lighting effects and projections set to music. All year-round, free guided tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The tours include the option to climb to the top of the Peace Tower, where you'll enjoy unmatched views over the city and Ottawa River.

Chateau Frontenac

Chateau Frontenac, set inside the Old Quebec walls overlooking the St. Lawrence River, is the archetype of a fairy-tale castle. Its founder, the GM of the Canadian Pacific Railway who desired a grand hotel for his passengers in the late 19th century, took inspiration from Renaissance and Medieval European castles, and his vision was executed impeccably. Today Chateau Frontenac is owned by the luxury hotel chain Fairmont, so if your budget allows it, you can join a lineage of such guests as Charles Lindberg, Franklin D. Roosevelt and King George VI.

Confederation Bridge

Before the Confederation Bridge opened in 1997, the only way to travel from New Brunswick to Prince Edward Island was by ferry or flight. The eight-mile-long, elegantly curved road bridge across Northumberland Strait is the longest in the world to be built over icy waters, and it revolutionized transportation in the Maritime Provinces. For tourists, the bridge makes it possible to visit PEI for a day trip or, given its enticements, a little longer. You don't need a car to cross; a shuttle for pedestrians and cyclists runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Just call for service at one of the shuttle stops. A toll is charged for cars, along with a considerably smaller charge for the shuttle.

Canada Place

Canada Place, set at Vancouver's harbor front, is a massive multi-use building housing a hotel, convention center, cruise ship terminal, offices and visitor attractions. From a distance, the imposing structure resembles a flotilla of sailing ships with its row of 90-foot white sails. Now operated by the province of British Columbia, Canada Place hosts the largest Canada Day celebration outside Ottawa, and every night from dusk until dawn its sails are illuminated and visible across the city. Listen at noon for the Heritage Horns, which have sounded the first four notes of "O Canada!" daily for over 20 years.

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About the Author

Joanne Thomas has worked as a writer and editor for print and online publications since 2004. As a specialist in travel, she has penned pieces for USAToday.com, Carnival Cruise Line, Travelocity and the San Francisco Travel Association, among other names. She has lived on three continents and currently resides in California. Thomas holds a bachelor’s degree in politics from the University of Bristol, U.K.

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